Pilgrims killed in crash on return trip from Uruguayan Marian shrine

Published: 2006-04-21

MONTEVIDEO, Uruguay (CNS) -- Ten Catholics on their way home from a Marian pilgrimage died when the bus in which they were traveling crashed into a truck crossing a bridge. Police said the victims of the April 19 accident included at least six people over age 60. Two children were among more than 20 taken to hospitals for treatment, and officials feared the number of victims could increase. Initial reports suggested the truck driver failed to heed yield signs and plowed into the bus. The driver faces murder charges. The Uruguayan bishops' conference sent a message of condolence to the families of the victims. "We send our deepest prayers for those who are surely now beside the mother they ... went to pay tribute to with their homage and love," it said in a statement.

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